Landscape Design Landscaping Process 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: During the site analysis phase, what does a soil percolation test primarily measure?
- The drainage and water absorption rate of the soil (Correct answer)
- The pH level of the soil
- The amount of organic matter present
- The compaction density from foot traffic
Correct answer: The drainage and water absorption rate of the soil
A percolation test measures how quickly water moves through soil, indicating drainage capacity.
Question 2: What is the correct sequence in the landscaping design process?
- Site analysis, concept design, final design, construction (Correct answer)
- Construction, site analysis, planting, design
- Final design, site analysis, concept, maintenance
- Planting, grading, site analysis, concept
Correct answer: Site analysis, concept design, final design, construction
Design follows a logical order from analyzing the site to building it.
Question 3: When creating a base map, why is it important to note existing utilities?
- To avoid damaging underground lines during excavation (Correct answer)
- To increase the property's resale value
- To determine plant color schemes
- To calculate mulch quantities
Correct answer: To avoid damaging underground lines during excavation
Marking utilities prevents costly and dangerous strikes during digging.
Question 4: What does a bubble diagram represent in the early design process?
- General locations and relationships of functional areas (Correct answer)
- Exact plant species and quantities
- Irrigation pipe diameters
- Final hardscape materials
Correct answer: General locations and relationships of functional areas
Bubble diagrams loosely map out activity zones before detailed design.
Question 5: Which factor is most important to assess for sun exposure during site analysis?
- The direction the area faces and shadow patterns throughout the day (Correct answer)
- The color of the house siding
- The number of nearby streetlights
- The width of the driveway
Correct answer: The direction the area faces and shadow patterns throughout the day
Orientation and shade patterns determine which plants will thrive in each area.
Question 6: What is the purpose of establishing a budget early in the landscaping process?
- To guide material choices and phasing of the project (Correct answer)
- To eliminate the need for a design plan
- To skip the site analysis step
- To avoid hiring any contractors
Correct answer: To guide material choices and phasing of the project
A budget shapes realistic decisions about scope, materials, and timing.
Question 7: Why should existing trees be evaluated before finalizing a design?
- Their roots, shade, and health affect what can be planted nearby (Correct answer)
- They must always be removed for new landscaping
- They determine the lawn mower size needed
- They set the property tax rate
Correct answer: Their roots, shade, and health affect what can be planted nearby
Mature trees influence light, root competition, and design opportunities.
Landscape Design Landscaping Process 2
During the site analysis phase, what does a soil percolation test primarily measure?